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A PAPER 



ABOUT 



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AND 



I^s Teachings, 



By EMILY RAYMOND. 



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" The more things thou learnest to know and enjoj^, the more complete and full 
will be for thee the delight of living." — Platen. 



'' To diffuse education among the people, to develop their understandings, and 
enlighten their minds, to strengthen our constitutional government and to secure 
is stability."— ;1/. Giiizot. 




TOLEDO : 
Blade Peixting & Paper 

1884. 



uc^rAt 



.C'a^ 



84- 



DEDICATED 

TO 

LEWIS MILLER, 

President of the Chautauqua Assembly, 
one of its two original founders 

AND 
ITS MOST LIBERAL PATRON. 



]lBOUT Chautauqua. 



Knowing that there is an increasing desire to 
understand the Chautauqua idea and aim wliich has 
taken captive the hearts of many thousand '' pil- 
grims" who for ten consecutive summers have jour- 
neyed to this Mecca, I will attempt in these few pages 
to give some prominent features of this unique assem- 
bly. 

It is an educational movement, combining sacred 
and secular knowledge, taking the teachings and 
doctrines of the Holv Bible as the chief corner stone. 
In other words, Chautauqua seeks to establish the 
relation of Christianity and of culture as they appear 
in our individual as well as in the national life. 

All persons are concerned in that which shapes 
the life, the destiny and the greatness of the nation, 
of which we all form a part. This great movement, 
which has caused from every part of the wide world 
the inquiry, ''What is this Chautauqua?" is a plan 
where men and women, boys and girls, may learn the 
truths which Christianity has nourished, that they may 
enter into sympathy with all those things that are 
pleasing to God, and allow the best, grandest and 



6 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

noblest of all ideas to have expression in their 
thoughts, their writings, their literature, and to per- 
vade their homes, in order that our national life be 
rich and great in results, rich in all that constitutes 
that which is grandest and best in human history. 

There is a saying that " two heads are better than 
one," and the proverb is proved true in the origin of 
the " Chautauqua Plan," as it was jointly the thought 
of Lewis Miller, of Akron, O., and J. H. Vincent, 
D. D., of Plainfield, N. J., both famous Sabbath- 
school workers. 

They, with many prominent educators of this 
Nineteenth Century, realize that the tendency of 
most of the teachings of the age are to overthrow 
and sever the precepts of God's Word and its require- 
ments from secular knowledge, rather than to build 
after its model, symmetrically, the character which 
requires spiritual, as well as mental and moral cul- 
ture, as much as the body needs its physical training. 

As we are commanded to search the Scriptures 
and to seek first the Kingdom of Heaven that all 
other things may be added, so the first great 
duty that Chautauqua teaches is " obedience" to this 
command of Him who made us, to have dominion 
and mastery in this beautiful world over all creatures 
and things, and Who also endowed us with capabili- 
ties for studying all His works. 

Chautauqua aims to prepare for eternity, and as 
the intellect is one great gift by which we are dis- 
tinguished from the brute that perisheth, and is im- 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 7 

perishable, therefore its laws require that it must be 
cultivated and expanded in all directions, and this 
new " movement," by the variety of its exercises 
and teachings, its biblical study, it smagazines, its 
paper and lecture programmes, however diverse, 
will be found to relate directly or indirectly to this 
true idea of educating according to the Christian 
theory. The memory is the great storehouse of the 
mind, and it must be filled with knowledge gained 
from the great Source of all wisdom, and in this way 
claiming the wonderful promise, " If any man wills 
to do God's will, he shall know." To realize what 
great power and strength lies in Obedience, T quote 
Thomas Hughes' expressive thought, which is em- 
bodied as follows : — 

"Three roots bear up ' Dominion,' knowledge, will, 
These two are strong, but stronger still the third, 

* Obedience', 'tis the great tap-root, which, stiM 
Knit round the rock of duty, is not stirred. 

Though storm and tempest spend their utmost skill." 

With this principle as a basis, Chautauqua builds, 
fully believing our Lord's word is not " Without Me 
ye can do little," but " Without Me ye can do 
nothing." Thus the keynote of this new departure 
from conventional ways is the question of true obe- 
dience; not that of which we are capable in our- 
selves, or of ourselves, but " What can He perform 
by making us monuments of His power and mirrors 
to display his image and knowledge." 

The outline of study is, first, the true culture for 



8 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

eternity according to the Christian theory ; second, 
seeking the agency of the Holy Spirit ; third, the 
instruments wliich are the truth, primarily and es- 
pecially revealed in the Holy Scriptures. The insti- 
tutions, as, the church influences, operating through 
the home public service —Sabbath-school and pastor- 
ate — the church school, with its specific work, 
both regenerative and educational, and pastoral, 
embracing its internal organization, officers and 
management, its text books, its teachers, its oppor- 
tunities and antagonisms, its collateral aids— which 
are, study of God's records in Nature — as Plwsical 
science — God's record in human history, as the study 
of man in mental, moral and social science, of man's 
achievement in literature and art, and the control of 
everyday life, in the interest of personal culture, 
social life and business undertakings. 

Chautauqua places the Bible in the center and at 
the foundation of all its work, and when the truth is 
realized that for many years most of the religious 
instruction has been, as it is now, given through the 
Sabbath-school, the wisdom of the leaders in this 
great plan of instruction was apparent, by the calling 
of a Sabbath-school assembly in August, 1874. This 
was from the first, and is now, an institute for train- 
ing teachers of to day and to-morrow in the con- 
tents of the Bible, in the best methods of teaching 
the Gospel that is in the Holy Bible, in its various 
forms of evangelical, philanthropical Christianity, 
which the study of the Bible has developed. Also 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 9 

o^iving- them knowledg-e from the o^reat foundations 
of secular trutli, both classical and modern, which 
aid in furnishing equipment for their work. 

Year by year new departments of study have been 
added in harmony with the outline presented. 

Chautauqua assumes a positive attitude towards 
all true science and good literature, and seeks, by all 
its teachings, to bring about the threefold piety, of 
the heart, the intellect and tiie will. 

In harmony with this purpose, the Literary and 
Scientific Department, with its mystical letters, 
C. L. S. C, was created. 

It involves a course of study and reading covering 
the principal subjects of the college curriculum, and 
gives an outlook over the vast field of learning and 
some acquaintance with the master pieces of both 
ancient and modern literature. 

Its aim is to promote habits of reading and study 
in nature, science, art, and in every field of learning, 
both sacred and secular. 

One beautiful feature of the arrangement is, that 
it brings the young and the old into the closest sym- 
pathy and fraternal delight as members of the great 
circle. 

The fact that the largest number of the American 
people can not have the education that a college 
graduate receives, and yet needing some means of 
culture after their school days are passed, was con- 
sidered, and our leaders created the different depart- 
ments of study, in connection with its foundation 



10 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

plan. It has grown until this Assembly at Chau- 
tauqua deserves the title first bestowed by " Joseph 
Cook," but not adopted by itself, the "Summer 
University." 

It is a school, in an humble way, for those per- 
sons, who, conscious of their needs, earnestly desire 
the highest culture possible for themselves. This 
plan of study gives general views from the vast 
realm of knowledge, and brings the multitude in 
direct contact with the most gifted, vigorous and 
brilliant intellects of the continent, who open the 
Avay to the masses that they may walk on the 
higher plane, continually seeking increase of wisdom, 
which is more powerful than earthly riches. Our 
noble leader, Dr. Yincent, reasoned that every soul 
should have some intellectual occupation, that all 
who work should think, and that they may think 
while they work. Also, that secular work in the 
kitchen, nursery, parlor, shop, farm, or counting- 
room, may be ennobled by the habit of thinking on 
the right subjects, with the right aim, and in the 
right way. For is it not proven true, that the more 
persons study nature and science, the more they 
will reverence the God of Nature and appreciate his 
unwritten book which is so full of mystery and of 
glorious truth ; for reverent thought brings belief in 
the i3ible. 

Although the design of the C. L. S. C. was for 

the uneducated masses of our people, yet a college 

' president first gave his name as a member, and all 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 11 

classes of society were represented upon the roll of 
the new association in the first seven hundred names, 
registered at Chautauqua, the very day the plan was 
presented. This new movement supplied a want 
widely realized, and as soon as the first members 
informed their friends at home a fresh list of 
names were added, which in a few weeks 
swelled the number to eight thousand. The zeal of 
the members may be noted by the demand for 
standard books which vrere prescribed for the first 
year's course of reading — as the entire stock of the 
various publishers was exhausted, a,nd for several 
months afterwards exceeded the supply. Of each 1 
work more copies were sold than the total number 
of members, thus showing that the influence of this 
circle extended beyond its own organization. 

It also showed that the thought of the people 
which had slumbered so long was awakening to a 
realizing sense that ignorance of the great world of 
"books "could no longer be allowed. The word 
school with all its broad meaning expresses the only 
name suitable for this wonderful scheme of instruc- 
tion. 

It is a school of specialties, that all minds may be 
attracted, and all tastes guided; and its lecture plat- 
form has the delightful programmes so arranged. 
" We Study the Word and the Works of God," is 
the first motto. The second one is, "Let us keep 
our Heavenly Father in the midst ;" a third one has 
been adopted, " I^ever be discouraged." It is pleas- 



12 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

ant for all to know tbat some of the most distinguished 
educators and literary men of our own times were con- 
sulted and that they most heartily approved this plan 
of instruction before it was given to the public. 
William CuUen Bryant endorsed and gave it his 
strong recommendation, in a letter written by his own 
hand, less than a month before his death. The reli- 
gious teachings of the Holy Scriptures which were 
to be so conspicuous at Chautauqua did not meet 
with one objection from our great poet, for there 
was no antagonism in his heart between science and 
revelation. 

Many persons inclined to be critical have asked, 
why does Chautauqua say and do so much about 
teaching the Bible, and have its doctrines so promi- 
nent 1 Also, cannot a person become cultured in any 
sense without some knowledge of its contents ? 

Chautauqua teachers answer, "Heaven and earth 
shall pass away, but these records of Divine revela- 
tion shall not pass away," but are for our direction, 
and we must possess ourselves of the great truths 
therein contained. 

The fact that the great portion of the mental food 
of the present time — science, history, poetry, morals, 
fiction and essays, is prepared by writers who have 
long since ceased to believe, and although true, that 
there never was a period when the sacred volume, 
embodying the world's faith and salvation, had so 
wide a distribution, or was exciting so mighty an 
influence upon the world's civilization and progress, 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. ig 

yet Chautauqua teachers must exalt the Bible, in 
order to show those who are weak in faith that 
Science and Religion are not two separate depart- 
ments, not even two phases of the same truth. For 
science has a broader realm in the unseen than in the 
seen, in the source of power than in the outcome of 
power, in the subhme laws of spirit than in the laws 
of matter, and religion sheds its beautiful hght over 
all the stages of life, till whether we eat or whether 
we drink, we may do all for the glory of God. 
Science and religion make common confession that 
the great object of life is to learn and to grow, and 
Cnautauqua teaches that both will come to see that. 
the best possible means for the attainment of this end 
is a personal relation to that Teacher who is the Way,, 
the Truth and the Life. 

The scientific department of this great movement 
discusses secular science with the Bible in hand. It 
studies natural science from the standpoint of faith 
in God's word, which is opened out and expounded 
hy leaders in science who, revering IN'ature, also bow 
before the God of Revelation. 

The leader and his counsellors are devout men,, 
and they realize that the truth or falsehood of the 
Bible, its worth or worthlessness, is the great question 
of the day; also that the life or death of modern 
societ\^ hangs upon its issue. They insist that everj 
member of this Circle shall study and see for them- 
selves that the teaching of this grand old Book is 
what is needed in this age. All are urged to give 



14 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

earnest examination to the literature of the Bible to 
see what it has gathered to itself, as it shows the 
amazing hold it has gained upon the human intellect 
and heart, as it set in motion, in all ages, the most 
powerful and polished minds, in explanation, illus- 
tration and defense of its truths and revelations. 

Cbautauqua believes with the German writer 
who aptly remarked that "one period has fought for 
Christ's sepulchre, another for his body and blood ; 
and that the present contends for his Word." Through 
the whole course of study involved in this new plan all 
are urged to seek with reverent faith the spirit of 
the Sacred Book, and have all their time brought 
into harmony of purpose with its requirements. 
Instead of keeping it for time of family prayer and 
worship, and putting it aside to make room for all 
the busy practical work of everyday life, Chautauqua 
urges us to take its teachings for hourly guidance, as 
we struggle towards what is good and best, as well 
as to make ourselves strong to meet the infidelity of 
the times. To prove that it is not an erratic fancy for 
the leaders in this great movement to insist upon the 
study of the sacred Scriptures, I will call your atten- 
tion to some thoughts from the most brilliant and 
distinguished intellects of the world which " teachers " 
of Chautauqua audiences bring before them for con- 
sideration. Also, some remarkable facts of scientific 
interest, which were in the Bible, and yet men would 
not believe them, but puzzled and perplexed their 
own brains to find out the sublime mysteries. 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 15 

Daniel Webster, when commended on a memor- 
able occasion for his eloquence, said, " Whatever I 
have spoken or written, that deserves the feeblest 
encomium of my countrymen, I have no hesitation 
in declaring that for their partiality I am indebted, 
solely indebted, to the daily and attentive perusal of 
the Holy Scriptures, which are the source of all true 
piety and eloquence, as well as of all good and all 
comfort." 

The unbelieving Eousseau paid an effective tribute 
to this divine book by saying it was the " only one 
which is indispensible to the Christian, and needs 
only to be read with reflection to inspire love for its 
Author, and the most ardent desire to obey its pre- 
cepts." " Never did virtue speak so sweet a language, 
never was the most profound wisdom expressed with 
so much energy and simplicity. No one can arise 
from its perusal without feeling himself better than 
he was before." 

Chautauqua, in leading her students to seek the 
pure thoughts from the master minds of every gen- 
eration, gives a high place to the immortal bard 
Shakespeare, and in searching, they find that he, too, 
was indebted to the Scriptures for his illustrations, 
rhythm and modes of expression. It is evident that 
he went first to the Word, then to the w^orks of God. 
Hence, his wonderful powor of inspiring all who 
study his utterance's with sublime affection for that 
which is o:ood, and chillinof us with horror bv his 
fearful dehneations of evil. While we study Shakes- 



16 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

peare we are reminded of the Bible, by an elevation 
of thought and simplicity of diction which are not 
found elsewhere. He gives quotations, allusions, and 
parallelisms in his work which show his familiarity 
with Scripture, as well as his fondness for it and the 
almost unconscious recurrence of it, to his own mind. 
'^Shakespeare's Complete Works" is the only other 
volume that may be said to have a literature of its own, 
Avhich stands at the head of human productions, for 
the universality and power of its influence, and 
because it shows more significantly the superhuman 
vitality of the Bible. Thus Chautauqua knows and 
teaches that our best literary men have been students 
of the Bible, and that it is tlie most stimulating book 
of all literature. The glory of this grand book is 
that it contains much that is simple enough to lead 
the "wayfaring man, though a fool ;" but also much 
that is difficult, and it is full of scientific assertions. 
" Science has exulted in having discovered what 
it is pleased to call an order of development on earth 
. — tender grass, herb, trees; moving creatures that 
have life in the waters; birds, reptile, beasts, cattle, 
man. The Bible gives the same or Jer ages before, 
and calls it God's successive creations. During ages 
on ages man's wisdom held the earth to be flat ; 
meanwhile God was saying, century after century, 
,of himself, "' He sitteth upon the sphere of the earth. '^ 
Men racked their feeble wits for expedients to hold 
the earth, and the best they could devise were ser- 
pents, elephants, turtles — beyond that, no one had 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 17 

ever gone to see what supported them, yet God was 
perpetually telling man that '' He had hung the 
earth upon nothing." 

Chautauqua teachers wish their students to '' search 
the Scriptures," also, to see what harmony there is 
between the Word and the Works of God. Science 
has no hint how a long ascending series of develop- 
ments, crowned by man, may advance another step, 
and man become equal to angels. But the simplest 
teachings of Scripture point out a way so clear that 
a little child may not miss the glorious consum- 
mation. One favorite teacher at Chautauqua has 
uttered the beautiful truth, that the " Universe is 
God's name, writ large," and that "thought" goes 
up the shining suns as golden stairs, and reads the 
consecutive syllables, all might and wisdom and 
beauty, and if the heart be fine enough and pure 
enough, it also reads everywhere the mystic name of 
Love. Chautauqua says, will you not learn to read 
the hieroglyphics and then turn to the blazonry of 
the Infinite page 1 That is the key-note ; the heavens 
and the earth declaring the glory of God, and men 
with souls attuned, listening. Herschel says " All 
human discoveries seem to be made only for the pur- 
pose of confirming more strongly the truths that 
come from on high, and which, also, are contained 
in the sacred writings. The common authorship of 
the worlds and the Word becomes apparent ; their 
common unexplored wealth is a necessary conclusion. 
We all know that the pet science of to-day is me- 



18 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

teorology. The fluctuations and variations of the 
weather had hitherto baffled all attempts at unravel- 
ing' them. It had seemed as if there was no law in their 
fickle changes. But at length perseverance and skill 
have triumphed, and a single man in one place predicts 
the weather and winds for a continent. Chautauqua 
turns to the Bible and shows in Ecclesiastes, 1st 
chapter, 6-T verses, that the whole department was 
under law, and laid down so clearly that if men had 
been willing to learn from it, they might have reached 
this wisdom centuries ago. Torricelli's discovery that 
the air had weight was received with incredulity. 
For ages the air had propelled ships, thrust itself 
against the bodies of men and overturned their works. 
But no man ever discovered that weight was neces- 
sary to give momentum. During all the centuries the 
fact had stood in the Bible waiting for man's compre- 
hension. Job xxviii.. 25 : " He gave to the air its 
weight." ]^ow, we need not be ignorant of what is 
recorded in the Bible if we will follow up the methods 
laid down in the plan of this great Christian educa- 
tional movement, that seeks to bring to the humblest 
soul opportunity of gaining wisdom in Physical Sci- 
ence as well as from Revelation. 

Science tells us that there has been a " survival of 
the fittest." Doubtless this is true, so Chautauqua 
teaches that in the future tliere will be a survival of 
the fittest. What will it be ? AVisdom, gentleness, 
meekness, brotherly kindness and love. Over those 
who have these traits death hath no permanent poW' er. 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 19 

The whole aim and teaching of this great move- 
ment is to bring- us . as Herbert Spencer says, "into 
harmony with our environment." 

Besides Biblical study we have general history 
and literature, selections from the greatest authors, 
translations from Homer, Demosthenes, Cicero and 
Yirgil. Astronomy, biography, physiology, theology 
and microscop}^ are taught. All thoughts from the 
latest scientists and all social reforms are discussed. 

A question may occur just here. How can one 
take so much study in six weeks, or, in fact, accom- 
plish anything in the way of study by simply going 
to this great center of instruction '( We must re- 
member that the aim is to extend its influence beyond 
the few weeks spent at Chautauqua, for home life is 
to be utilized in the interest of knowledge. We go 
to this "High Place " much as the Children of Israel 
went up to Jerusalem, to gather "inspiration" for 
the coming months after our return when the actual 
work begins. 

The course of reading and study is arranged for 
four years — ten months in each year — and can be 
accomplished by giving one hour each day to the 
matter. 

The plan is simple enough to invite the masses, 
and lead them on without discouragement from its 
difficulties, yet so thorough as not to be deemed 
superficial. 

Time would not allow me even to mention or 



20 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

allude to the grandeur of this educational movement. 
Even the London Times remarked that never since 
the days of Queen Elizabeth had there been such a 
revival of learning. 

There are members of this circle in every State 
and Territory of our Union, besides in nearly every 
quarter of the globe. All creeds as well as countries- 
are represented, and its influence for good is already 
unbounded. There is not in the world another such 
a device for helping to educate the human soul. No 
school, college, university or church has ever held 
forth such an opportunity for true, grand, harmoni- 
ous culture. 

Chautauqua has been more potent in uniting the 
people of our own sunny South than any other in- 
fluence. At this center for several summers the most 
prominent educators, besides men and women of 
literary culture, also statesmen and Governors, have 
occupied the platform and sat in the assembly and 
mingled their voices in praise and prayer with our 
own, and the most intimate friendships are sought. 

Gov. Colquitt and Dr. Haygood, two extreme 
Southerners, have listened with fraternal delight to 
lectures by Schuyler Colfax and other distinguished 
Northern men. They have heard with tender hearts 
reminiscences of the battle fields from George 
II. Stewart and General Eisk of the Christian Com- 
mission. I repeat the significant fact that this " Chau- 
tauqua movement " has been more potent than any 
power of our Government, civil or political, in har- 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 21 

monizing the two sections of our beloved land, which 
were so sadly divided by our late civil war. 

Chautauqua is also a place where all " reforms are 
agitated," and let all of us remember the " Women's i 
Ohristiau Temperance LTnion," originated at this / 
center. 

Aside from the Sabbath School l^ormal teachino^s 
and the Literary and Scientific Circle Chautauqua 
marked anew era in its eighth year by opening a 
school of Theology. It is regularly chartered by the 
Legislature of l^ew York, with power to confer de- 
grees on those Avho pursue the designated course and 
pass a satisfactory examination. This is in harmony 
with its first aim and is for the higher education of 
Christian ministers who are already settled over con- 
gregations. One characteristic of each new develop- 
ment of Chautauqua is, that it is not strained or 
forced, but it is brought to the front, to meet a posi- 
tive demand. To quote the words of a friend, "The 
pew and the pulpit unite in asking for an institution 
of this kind. It has come to pass in these latter 
day's that the plane of the pew^s in our churches is no 
longer from ten to twenty feet lower than the box, 
where the minister stands. Indeed, there are churches 
where the pews are even higher than the pulpit, and 
the pulpit realizes that the time has come when if no 
higher than the pew in intelligence, culture and 
piety, it may as well be taken down and set out. 
Prominence in spirituality alone will not answer, for 



22 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

people take their intellects to church, and some take 
their intellects only. All who cherish the church as 
the teacher of civilization and morality, are anxious 
for the higher education, and continued prestige of 
her ministry. 

The minister, from his place in the pulpit, is quick 
to perceive and appreciate the situation. He hears 
the mutteriugs of the times, and realizes that he is 
the appointed keeper of the Temple. But how shall 
lie make ready for the increased demands upon him — 
how to study, when to study, and what to study — 
how to widen his horizon and add to his mental 
power. There are theological schools, but he cannot 
leave his field. Herein is the reason for this new 
School of Theology, which brings the course of study 
into his own home, that he may pursue it in connec- 
tion with his regular work. 

In his private study he is placed under the counsel 
and direction of a faculty composed of scholars of 
highest reputation as students and educators in the- 
ology. The work required is solid work, as the C. 
S. T. has no patent system, nor short-cut road to a 
theological education. This department, therefore^ 
is to help ministers to economize time, to keep abreast 
with the times in Biblical, ecclesiastical, theological 
literature, and in general literature and science, so 
far as they bear upon the studies which belong to 
their profession. 

There is a department called Chautauqua Young 
Folks Eeading Union, the purpose of which is to 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 23 

unite young folks everywhere in pursuing each year 
a course of entertaining reading prepared especially 
for them. 

The School of Languages has for its object the in 
struction of teachers and others in the natural meth- 
ods of teaching both ancient and modern languages, 
and to increase popular interest it philological studies. 

The Teachers' Retreat has become one of the 
most popular institutions at Chautauqua. Its aim is 
to quicken and benefit secular teachers by inspiring 
them to develop their individual powers and apti- 
tudes in the study and practice of the profession. 
Their instruction is imparted by the foremost educa- 
tors of the age. 

A Chautauqua Children's Class meets daily in their 
Temple, during the Annual Assembly, at 8 o'clock a. 
M., and is under the direction of Kev. B. T. Vincent 
and Frank Beard, the chalk artist. The course of 
study is chiefly Biblical, embracing lessons in the 
Bible as a book, in Bible history, geography and doc- 
trines— in memorizing texts of Scripture and sacred 
hymns ; also in practical life, laws of courtesy, de- 
portment, etc. They have lectures, illustrated by 
costumes, by the oxy-hydrogen light and by models. 
Pilgrimages by the children are made from time to 
time through Palestine Park, ander the direction of 
experienced tourists who have visited and studied 
the actual Holy Land. 

Chautauqua has a permanent Missionary Insti- 



34 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

tute, the object of which is the promotion of an in- 
lellitrent and enthusiastic interest in Christian Mis- 
sions, both at home and abroad. In connection with 
Foreign Missions an appeal from Chautauquans was 
sent to Victoria, Empress of India, that she would 
abolish the System of " Child Wives " in every part 
of that vast domain. 

The College af Music, with its six departments, is 
another development of the Chautauqua Idea. It 
seeks to cultivate its members in the Science and Art 
of Music. Besides the eight departments mentioned, 
there is a Look-up-Legion, an order of Temperance 
Classmates and a Chautauqua Society of " Christian 
Ethics for Young People." 

Also a department of the C. L. S. C. has been add- 
ed. Its aim is to supply the needs of a large class 
of people^ who denie a course of reading less exten- 
sive. Its works are more recreative and popular in 
their style. It embraces a course of thirty -six vol- 
umes, one for each month during the year, so arrang- 
ed that it may be accomplished by reading from 
twelve to twenty pages each day. It is called " The 
Chautauqua Boook — a Month Reading Circle." Its 
superintendent is J. L. Hurlburt, D. D., Plainfield, 
K J. 

Rev. J. E. Kittredge truly said that " one is easily 
reminded whenever Chautauqua's name is spoken, 
of the wonderful Banyan tree of the banks of the 
ISTerbudda." Southey finely describes it in these 
words : 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 25 

^ ' It was a goodly sight to see 

That venerable tree, 

For o'er the lawn irregularly spread, 

Fifty straight columns propped its lofty head ; 

And many a long dependent shoot, 

Seeking to strike its root. 

Straight like a plummet grew towards the ground. 



Beneath was smooth and fair to sight, 

Nor weeds, nor briars, deformed the natural floor. 

And through the leafy copse which bowered it o'er, 

Came gleams of checkered light. 

So like a temple did it seem, that there 

A pious heart's first impulse would be prayer," 

Each year Chautauqua, like this famous growth 
of India, drops down in most vigorous fashion these 
depending shoots, that, taking root, thicken into full 
trunks and give breadth and might and wealth of 
fruitage to the whole structure. 

Persons should be present to enjoy the annual 
meetings at Chautauqua, but attendance there is not 
necessary to graduate in ihe C. L. S. C, as those who 
have never visited this great center may enjoy the 
advantages, diploma and honors of the Circle. But 
unless one has been to the "Assembly " the real spirit 
of the " wonderful movement" is not caught, for the 
very air one breathes then has all the " inspiration 
of a college town " as the students wear their various 
badges, designating the year of graduation, degrees 
conferred and other marks of distinction, while the 
various 'Professors, in their " caps," are seen flying 



26 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

hither and thither to their various classes as the bells, 
" Chautauqua bells," ring out their sweet calls of the 
hours of study. Besides, one has the pleasure of see- 
ino;- and hearing- manv notable men and women of 
this 19th century, which, alone, is a privilege seldom 
enjoyed in a city or home in this world. The in- 
fluence of this place is world-wide, and when we 
realize its history of ten years — with the religious 
and literary organizations it has brought into being, 
the literature it has created, the reforms it has 
pushed — we will desire to come and pay our homage 
to the " shrine," and will feel that it is truly wise to 
exclaim : " The Lord's hand is with this great Edu- 
cational Movement." 

There are over 40,000 members who are pursuing 
the reading and study of the C. L. S. C. This Circle 
was organized in 1878, and yet the last class (1886) 
numbers 12,000. Some members pursue the course 
of study alone, while others find it helpful to meet 
with the local circles which now aggregate almost to 
a thousand, and are of all sizes, from three members 
to several hundred. In August of each year the 
members of these Circles, to whom it is possible, 
gather at Chautauqua, and for several weeks pursue 
their studies under the direct supervision of their 
leader and superintendent. Dr. Yincent. 

There is a form of application for membership to 
the C. L. S. C, which can be obtained from MissK. F. 
Kimball, Plainfield, IST. J. All persons who desire to 
unite with the "Circle" should send the annual fee 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 27 

of fifty cents which is used to defray the expenses of 
correspondence, memoranda, etc., that would be re- 
ceived from " headquarters" by the member. The 
full course of reading covers four years, and an aver- 
age of forty minutes daily reading will enable the 
student in nine months to complete the books re- 
quired for the year. In explaining the memoranda, 
I will say that the annual '' examinations" are 
held at the home of the members, and in writing. 
The paper forwarded to them is called a ''Mem- 
oranda," and consists of large sheets, one on each 
department of study, containing questions, with 
blanks for answers, outlines, hints on study, and a 
catechism of important facts to be memorized. The 
items of printing and postage, in sending all this 
material to 40,000 people, are considerable ; conse- 
quently the small sum of two dollars for the entire 
course of four years explains itself. There is no 
financial aim in the enterprise. 

Just at this point it may be of interest to some 
persons to know that the thought of this C. L. S. C. 
first entered the mind of its originator, J. H. Vincent, 
twenty -five years ago, while he was beginning his 
ministry as a village pastor in New Jersey, but its 
practical realization was reserved for more favorable 
auspices. In the summer of 1878, while Dr. Yincent 
was crossing the Atlantic homeward bound, from a 
breathing spell under the Alps, the plans of this won- 
der Circle were matured and its details arranged. 
In the original plans of the Assembly, as well as in 



2S ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

their execution, Mr.'Lewis Miller and Dr. Yincent 
have cordially co-operated, and to the first named, 
special honor is due for the conception of having it 
an " Out-door University." The Chautauqua As- 
sembly is the parent and pattern of all the summer 
Sunday-school gatherings, under the varied names 
of ''Assembly," "Congress," " Parliament," Encamp- 
ment, throughout our broad land, from Ocean Grove 
to the Yosemite. 

In allusion to this Literary and Scientific Circle, 
a wittv member has said : " Now, all over the land 
are groups of ladies who meet with their sewing to 
discuss, not their neighbors' virtues, but the conduct 
of the Greeks and Romans, or listen to a selection 
from some great author, or a translation from Homer 
or Yirgil. Travelers, both old and young men, on 
the railway car and steamer, one sees, conning their 
Chautauqua text-books, and there are home circles, 
where the kings of old England are reviewed at the 
breakfast table, social gatherings with "criticism 
and cream " mingled in pleasant proportions, and 
ambitious organizations with lecture courses, besides 
public discussions in town halls. It is also said that 
the first question when real Chautauquans meet is. 
How are you up in your readings? instead of the old 
conversation about their domestics and the fashions. 
" This Circle has fifteen Memorial Days set apart 
as days of special interest to every member, and are 
for devout prayer for the furtherance of the objects 
of this Society. The " Bryant " bell at Chautauqua 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 29 

rings at noon, October 1st, when members are sup- 
posed to begin their studies, also, on every memorial 
day during the year! Wherever they may be, true 
Chautauquans can hear its echoes! On these re- 
spective days all members are to read the literary 
and scriptural selections indicated, and to collect 
some facts about the authors whose birthdays are 
thus commemorated, and to invoke the blessing of 
our Heavenly Father upon this attempt to exalt His 
Word, and to understand and rejoice in His Works." 

Tl:ie C. L. S. C. has its own monthly magazine, 
called the Chautauquan, in honor of the place and the 
organization. It publishes ten numbers each year, 
which contain as serials, many of the required books, 
besides articles selected from both standard and cur- 
rent literature. Tbis magazine is edited and pub- 
lished at Meadville, Pa., by Theodore L. Flood, D. 
D., M. A., who has been from the first the journalist 
of the Chautauqua Movement. 

Then, the Assembly Herald is published every 
morning, Sundays excepted, during three weeks of 
the Assembly. It is an eight page, forty -eight col- 
umn paper, printed on the grounds on a steam power 
press. There are eight stenographers employed, 
who are first-class reporters. This Daily Herald 
mirrors all sermons, lectures, and all proceedings at 
Chautauqua, and for the simple price of one dollar 
we have more than seventy choice addresses ta 
carry as possessions to our homes. 



30 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

The place Avhere this wonderful Assembly annu- 
ally meets is situated in Western New York. It is 
a charming and well wooded plateau, sloping down 
to the very edge of Chautauqua Lake. The lake is 
seven hundred feet above Lake Erie, which is ten 
miles distant, and fourteen hundred feet above the 
Atlantic Ocean. Chautauqua contains one hundred 
and thirty-six acres of land, which is laid out into 
streets, avenues^ classic groves and ''sacred sites." 
It is easy of access, and " excursion tickets " are sold 
to it from all principal points on the leading railways 
in the country, north, south, east and west. On the 
grounds proper are more than twelve miles of drive- 
way. Horses and carriages are brought by visitors 
from Indiana, Ohio and other States, for family use 
during the season. Chautauqua has a " railroad " 
running into the north side, which connects with 
the Lake Shore at Brocton, 'N. Y., and the Erie 
Eailway, at Corry, Pa. During the Assembly there 
is a large fleet of steamers, besides private yachts, 
hundreds of row-boats, and many a white sail is 
filled by the breeze. The steamers all connect with 
Mayville, Lakewood and Jamestown, and daily, 
crowds of people take excursions over the beautiful 
lake. Apropos of this charming lake, I will say 
that poets rave over its beauty, and it surely is a 
gem. Just before the sunset there is a light over its 
waters that reminds one of the hidden fires of the 
"opal." It is so clear that the trees look into its 
glassy surface and see " their faces " reflected. In 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 31 

its cradle the stars lie down at night to sleep. 
Clouds deck it with their shadows. With multitud- 
inous weaves, it sings its anthems, which have 
sounded in the ear of God for thousands of years. 
In the sweet summer time children launch their tiny 
crafts on its waters and pick up pebbles along its 
beach, and men and women bathe beneath its silver 
waves. Only after long periods does it shake with 
anger. There it lies, full and. fresh and clear and 
beautiful as the ''mercy from above." Scattered 
on both shores are summer hotels, where hundreds 
of people come for their rest and recreation. 

For the health of humanity it is written — there 
are three requisites, viz : Pure air, pure w^ater and 
proper sewerage. ^Nature provided the first two at 
Chautauqua in a bounteousness found in few places 
in this world. The upper currents that fan the lake 
and the lower currents that bubble up in the sandy 
bottom give us the pure air. The water supply, 
aside from natural springs and many good wells that 
have been drilled, is taken from the bottom of the 
lake, direct from its purest sources, and forced 
through pipes to all parts of the ground. Chemical 
analysis of this water shows that it has no equal in 
purity. The sanitary precautions are perfect ; no 
sewers flowing into the lake, and not a drop of waste 
water even allowed to be thrown on the ground, but 
every thing removed daily, and no stronger argu- 
ment for its healthfulness, than that thousands of 
people ever\^ year spend their summer vacation in 



32 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

this '' city in the woods," and return with renewed 
health and vigor to their homes. 

Ample accommodations are found in many of 
the private cottages, beside the boarding-houses, 
where from five to fifteen dollars per week good 
board can be obtained. Rooms can also be rented 
in most of the cottages at reasonable rates. Parties 
so Tenting can board outside by the day or " board 
themselves," as a good bakery, grocery, meat market 
and other supply stores with the dairy and its rich 
creamy milk will fully meet all the demands m their 
respective lines. The Hotel Athenaeum, completed 
two years since, offers accommodations of the most 
complete and perfect character. It has every modern 
convenience for the comfort of its guests, spacious 
and elegant parlors, halls and dining rooms, a pas- 
senger elevator, large and cheerful rooms with ex- 
cellent beds, and broad verandas. Rates from three 
to four dollars per day. This hotel is called one of 
the most elegant in America. It can entertain 500 
guests. 

Chautauqua is famous for the purity of its air^ 
the beauty of its groves, its entire freedom from flies 
and mosquitoes, which are the pest of many places. 
Chautauqua gives all the advantages with none of 
the disadvantages of the so-called summer resorts. 
Its society is, in the highest sense, refining; its in- 
fluences are educating, and build up both parents 
and children. It is a place of freedom without li- 
cense ; of recreation without harmful amusements. 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 33 

The card-table, the dance and late hours are for- 
bidden. The moral and social atmosphere is de- 
lightful, and remarked as soon as one enters the 
grounds. There is no other place on this continent 
where one can enjoy such rare combination of rest, 
recreation and instruction as at Chautauqua. The 
various " meetings " are held in buildings and tents 
delio:htfullv situated in the o^roves. In the several 
parks are pavilions and hundreds of rustic seats 
where one can sit and meditate, or come with book 
or friend to read or chat, as fancy dictates. The 
parks are kept in a charming rural style — with beau- 
tiful flowers, statuary and flowing fountains, hang- 
ing baskets always filled with graceful vines and 
foliage. Then on every side are grand old forest 
trees, under the shade of which, if at all reverent, 
the force of Bryant's poems fills the heart, and in- 
voluntarily one exclaims, "The groves were God's 
first temples," and offers to the " Mightiest" solemn 
thought and supplication. 

The Chautauqua Idea in all its bearings is like a 
kaleidoscope, which must be turned and turned, and 
adjusted to the eye to see all its beauties, and each 
department must be observed closely to learn what 
they are. The observer will find that all history, 
science, philosophy, art, literature and Christianity 
itself, is under his eye. There are models for study, 
besides ornamental structures scattered over the 
grounds. The model of the Holy Land is nearly 
three hundred feet in length, lying on the border of 



84 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

the lake, which for this purpose represents the Med- 
iterranean Sea. Here the student can travel on foot 
over the hills, through the valleys and by the water 
courses of Canaan. Every day in Assembly time, 
at certain hours, points of interest are explained by 
some devout scholar who has visited the Sacred 
Land. There is also a model of Jerusalem in the 
Park, which is considered one of the finest^ever pre- 
pared. I^ear it is an Oriental House. Both occupy 
prominent positions. There is here a sectional model 
of the Great Pyramid of Keezeh and a Children's 
Temple, a Chapel, Normal Pavilion and Congrega- 
tional House, an Amphitheatre which will seat six 
thousand. In this building there is a large pipe 
organ, which on great occasions sends forth its grand 
peals of music to the accompaniment of a choir of 
three or five hundred voices and a fine orchestra. 
At other times the great congregation helps on the 
C. L. S. C. songs and the grand old church hymns, 
made sacred by their religious sentiments and a 
thousand precious memories. Chautauqua music 
must be heard to be appreciated, and when from a 
distance the manifested approval of a vast audience 
during the rendering of a concert seems like the rattle 
of hail, it must make one conclude that there is also 
"music" in applause. If joi\ can imagine approval 
without stamping of feet or striking of canes, which 
methods are never allowed in a Chautauqua audi- 
ence, you will wonder how it is manifest! I will 
say, by simply " clapping of the hands !" On rare 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 35 

occasions, and then onhr when suggested by our 
leader, Dr. Yincent, we have a " Chaatauqua Salute," 
or a "Blooming of the White Lilies," given 
distinguished persons. It is a most beautiful mani- 
festation, and originated at Chautauqua — given for 
the " first time" for General Grant, who, when Pres- 
ident of the United States, honored Chautauqua 
with his presence. It must be seen to know what it 
is. Our dear Garfield received it, and some Brah- 
mins from India have been honored. Joseph Cook 
always has the compliment, also John B. Gough. 
Many persons have received the honor, and many 
more will, as from year to year they go up to this 
"High Altar of Knowledge," and yet the compli- 
ment is " always rare." Chautauqua has an open 
air Auditorium, with seats for three thousand persons. 
In it, under a covered platform, the Concert rehears- 
als are held. And a very important acquisition at 
this center is a Museum of Art and Sacred and Gen- 
eral Archaeology, located in " New^ton Hall." Also 
during the Assembly large bazaars are opened, where 
one can purchase everything in the literary and fancy 
line. A brief description of the contents and aim of the 
"Museum" will show to students that it is not nec- 
essary for them to go to the British Museum in Lon- 
don, to the Louvre in Paris, or to Berlin, to examine 
rare casts or manuscripts, for generous friends have 
donated the following articles to Chautauqua : There 
are six hundred " Exhibits," which are distinctly the 
property of the Chautauqua Archaeological Society. 



36 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

First of all, are eleven plaster casts of ancient monu- 
ments, each one being a choice selection. The 
Winged Lion and the Winged Bull of Nineveh, the 
Black Obelisk of Shalmaneseer II, the Moabite 
Stone, two Assyrian Tablets, an Egyptian Tablet 
representing the Goddess Isis, the famous Rosetta 
Stone, the Siloam Inscription, the Deluge Tablet and 
the Arch of Titus, this latest and costliest acquisi- 
tion was put in place last August. This Arch was 
expressly cast by Malpieri, the formatori in Rome, 
and imported for Chautauquans, the generous gift of 
Jacob Miller, of Canton, Ohio. A second class em- 
braces copies of ancient manuscripts and inscrip- 
tions. Of these are seven separate works, compris- 
ing sixteen volumes in all. The Codex Alexand- 
rinus in autotype, the Codex Fredirico-Augustenus 
in fac-simiie, the bronze ornaments of the palace 
gates of Balawet, in five superb volumes, of one 
hundred plates, the Monuments of Nineveh, in two 
portfolios of 100 and 71 plates severally, four vol- 
umes of the cuneiform inscriptions of Western Asia, 
and the Great Harris Papyrus, the largest in the 
world. Maps, charts and photographs make up the 
third class. Of these there are 123. The library 
numbers thirty-five volumes. A special Palestine 
collection, illustrating the land of the Book, secured 
through the assistance of Prof. Edwin R. Lewis, of 
Beruit, Syria, numbers 108 items. Then the Art 
Department of the Museum embraces 234 pieces, in- 
cluding views of the representative paintings of the 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 37 

world, small plastic casts of classic art, and framed 
cases of photographs of foreign views and works of 
the master artists. Besides these, in the summer 
are temporary loans, including the rich and large 
collection of Professor O. A. Yan Lennep. This 
C. A. S. is only two years old, yet how rich in prom- 
ise for future additions. This Society all will under- 
stand is to gather for the "Bible students" material 
that shall illustrate or corroborate or in any degree 
help to interpret the Sacred Book ; to establish at 
Chautauqua a treasure house, and to preserve within, 
it the very best stores from every available quarter of 
the globe. The Bible is a book of geography and has 
its lands, therefore there are systematic searching 
investigations, from which charts, plans and accu- 
rate maps are produced, models of cities and coun- 
tries, flora and fauna, trees, flowers and plants, are 
collected. It is the aim of the C. A. S. to provide 
full sets of these in order to make vivid the com- 
prehension of Bible geography and topography. 
This Society will also collect and preserve here for 
its students copies of the monuments of the past that 
are now stored away in many a ruined tomb and 
temple, or just beneath the soil, records that illumi- 
nate, confirm, and often supplement with great 
beauty the Scripture annals. There are volumes of 
records in ruins of cities, which are discovered, and 
then casts, squeezes, and tracings of these quaint 
tablets are made. It is the intention of this Societv 
to collect and preserve these casts and copies of 



38 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

monuments which shed light from out of the past 
upon the History and Chronology of the Bible. And 
the text of the Bible, too, one must have, or a copy 
of the original manuscripts of Evangelist or Prophet. 
Papyrus is too fragile, and the ''tooth of Time" too 
sharp; therefore copies of copies, are here, called 
codices of the Bible. The chief of these originals 
are the Alexandrine in the British Museum, the Si- 
anitic in St. Petersburgh, the Yatican in the library 
at Rome. Then there are ancient versions and 
translations into cotemporary tongues, renderings in 
later ages of vast interest to the scholar. It is the 
distinct aim to hold these, also by autotype, copies 
of all leading codices, or fac-simile copies where the 
autotype is not provided. Accompanying the ma- 
terial contents of this Museum, this Society will se- 
cure at Chautauqua a Lectureship that will present 
the results of modern research, latest news from the 
monuments, the conclusions reached by reliable in- 
vestigations in each department. Already have 
Wm. H. Ward, Philip Schaff and J. E. Kittredge, 
all eminent divines, given addresses of great value, 
from the Chautauqua platform, in its interest. And 
most sacred of all places in this center of instruction 
is " St. Paul's Grove," named in honor of the great- 
est man in all the Christia.n centuries, the Apostle 
who united broad culture, with deep religious enthu- 
siasm. In this grove, surrounded by lofty trees, one 
sees a white temple, Grecian in architecture, whose 
open sides recall pictures of the Partheon. It is the 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 39 

" Hall of Philosophy," and on entering we find it 
adorned with busts of the old Athenian edncators. 
It is the place where the members of the C. L. S. C. 
meet for their "Round Table" conferences and other 
special services. During the Assembly, in this h:ill 
at the earl}^ morning hour of eight all raetaphyisical 
and scientific topics are discussed, with some learned 
Christian Professor in the chair, who is master of 
the theme presented, and who must also bring the 
latest thought for the people. Just imagine it! all 
ye morning slumberers ! that at this early hour hun- 
dreds of interested listeners, women as well as men, 
are assembled! This beautiful and now classic grove, 
a little removed from the bustle and crowd, with its 
hall, has been chosen especially for the Chautauqua 
Scientific and Literary Circle. Here, burn yearly the 
''Athenian watch-fires." In this grove there is a 
beautiful "Bronze Gate" standing at the entrance 
of an arched " Way " that leads to the " Hall in the 
Grove." This "gate" opens only to those persons 
who have finished the " four years course" demanded 
by the C. L. S. C. For two years, '82 and '83, 
Chautauqua has had " Commencement Day," on 
which occasions over two thousand women and men 
have entered through the opened gate way, walked 
under the " arches," over flowers which were strewn 
on the path by "little children," and have been 
"welcomed" into the Society known as "The Hall 
in the Grove," by Dr. Yincent and his counsellors. 
After which the grand procession passes on, escorted 



40 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

by thousands, who with their respective badges and 
banners and gay music, march to the Amphitheatre, 
where, after appropriate services, " Diplomas " are 
bestowed. Hard by, are held the annual Camp 
Fires, at which Chautauqua carols are sung, and 
speeches made, and old folks grow young again! 
Oh ! who would not be a Chautauquan ! Then we 
must not forget to look for an ''Art Studio," where 
the genial sculptor, Edward A. Spring, of Perth 
Amboy, presides and initiates all true art lovers into 
the mysteries of " clay modeling," or first art. JS^ear 
the Art Studio is a "classic" structure, called, in 
common parlance, the " Knower's Ark," and if walls 
could speak many "wonderful histories of the past ten 
years would be revealed," the origin of many " wierd 
plans and plots," and nine o'clock " phantom proces- 
sions" could be traced, and oh! what charming 
"Blazes" since the "new broad old-fashioned chim- 
ney corner" was added, have been the delight of its 
guests and their special "dear five hundred friends." 
Closely allied to this educational purpose was 
that of recreation under Christian auspices, mingling 
study and enjoyment. Among the attractions of 
the Assembly are superior lectures in literature, art, 
history, science, by men of national and often world- 
wide reputation. The music is always fine, cornet- 
ists, violinists, choice vocalists, or a large chorus 
choir with organ and piano usually precede the lec- 
tures. Beautiful firew^orks, illuminated fleets, camp- 
fires, bon-fires, concerts, debating societies, spelling 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 41 

matches, Saturday picnics, evening excursions on the 
lake, electric fountains and grounds illuminated 
every night by the electric light, minister to the de- 
light of all. 

Then we have vespers, philogical conference ser- 
vices, receptions, alumnal banquets, Sabbath school 
sessions. Assembly services, sermons, praise meet- 
ings, even-songs, lectures in French and German. All 
services open with prayer and close with the Gloria 
Patri, in which every person of the great audiences 
join, instead of leaving the choir to perform an act 
Avhich should come from every heart. Time would 
not allow me to speak of the gifted minds " whose 
names are household words" — who are selected as 
lecturers and teachers for the themes chosen for pre- 
sentation on this Chautauqua platform, to all the 
throngs of people who for ten years have annually 
assembled. Our leaders seek knowledge from every 
source that is lawful and true, for the improvement 
of the taste through the eye as well as for the mind. 
They give us steriopticon illustrations of statuary 
and paintings and symbolic lectures, besides lessons 
by models, telescope, microscope, and every new in- 
vention, that we may grow more symmetrical in 
character and come near to the great Author of the 
Worlds and the Word. All the weeks of sojourn are 
delightful, because the rules and regulations are con- 
ducted in the most wonderful manner. Every hour 
with its chosen work is noted by the chimes or bells. 
Even the hours of sleeping and awaking are ap- 



42 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

pointed. Here, one can bring their sons and not 
fear temptations, and their daughters can remain 
without a chaperon! There are many excursions 
by steamer over the beautiful lake on the Sabbath, 
but they are not allowed to land upon these grounds. 
Its "Sunday Laws" have been enforced from the 
beginning without Smith Bills or other legislative 
acts, but by the simple authority of its Christian 
President and his staff and the Christian principles 
embodied in the hearts of the multitudes who for a 
few weeks are citizens of this " City in the Woods." 
On other days excursion parties come by thousands, 
and naturally some would become disorderly, and the 
question would be, how are they managed? I an- 
swer, they are Americans, and refer you to Arch- 
ibald Forbes' description of the great motley assem- 
bly at the recent centennial celebration of the sur- 
render of Yorktown. 

It may be asked, who pays for all these great and 
wonderful privileges of culture which can be received 
at Chautauqua — for the master minds of the world 
— whose names one can read on the Assembly pro- 
grams, must have compensation ? The money is re- 
ceived from gate fees of daily attendance, and the 
ten per cent, tax, or money received from boarding 
houses and business firms, and the generous gifts of 
money from its founders. One can judge the popa- 
lar sentiment regarding it, as a place worth visiting, 
when known that in its eighth summer the entrance 
fee for three weeks amounted to $24,000. Who 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 43 

comes ? The Assembly is composed of all ranks and 
conditions, in the social scale, regardless of age, color 
or sex. 

"The snowy headed sage — the boy- 
Elate with manhood's joy, 
The maiden, with unfrosted hair. 
The mother, bowed with earthly care, 
The child, whose hands rest 
Lightly against its mother's breast," 

All come to this, the only place in the world, where 
as equals 'Hhe rich and the poor meet together, feel- 
ing that the Lord is the maker of them all." Again ^ 
the question. What is this Chautauqua? Joseph 
Cook has well said, " It is both an achievement and 
a promise." There is here a hopeful endeavor to 
bring to a focus, all truth that has a religious bear- 
ing, whether it is biblical or scientific, and to hold 
up in the heat of that focus all the indifference of the 
average church member, in the performance of his 
duties to the vast population of America. This in- 
stitution of Chautauqua, could it be imitated from 
side to side of the land, would " save America," not ( 
merely from small philosophy and from small poli- 
tics, but from most other parts of our long and dis- 
mal list of indigenous small things. 

Our dear late President Garfield when at Chau- 
tauqua, in his address said : "You are struggling 1 
with one of the two great problems of civilization. 
The first one is a very old struggle. It is, 'How 
shall we get leisure V That is the problem of every \ 
hammer stroke, of every blow that labor has struck 



44 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

, since the formation of the world. The fight for 
I bread is the first great primal fight, and it is so ab- 
/ sorbing a struggle that until one conquers it some- 
/ what, he can have no leisure. So we may divide 
the whole struggle of the human race into two chap- 
' ters— first, to get leisure, and then comes the second 
fight of civilization, w^hat shall we do with our leis- 
ure when we get it ? I understand that Chautauqua 
is trjdng to answer that question, and to open out 
fields of thought, to open out energies, a largeness 
of mind, a culture, with the varnish scratched off. 
We are getting over the business of varnishing and 
painting our native woods. We are getting down to 
the real grain, and finding whatever is best in it, and 
truest in it, and if Chautauqua is helping to garnish 
our people with the native stuff that is in them, 
rather than the ' paint and varnish and gewgaws of 
culture, they are doing well.' 

" Bishop Wiley in a sermon of unusual excellence 
and power preached at Chautauqua, closed with the 
following tribute to this wonderful power. 'I have 
never felt happier as to this outlook of Christianity 
than I have done here at Chautauqua, and this 
question continually arises, the nineteenth century 
is the progressive age, this is the most advanced 
period of the world ; here, is the head and topmost 
stone of civilization; here we are, away off to- 
ward the end of this great century that is to ac- 
complish such mighty things. What is Chautauqua ? 
A Christian light, a Christian power, a Christian 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 45 

center, one of the most hopeful, powerful and 
promising things for the outlook of Christianity 
and far in advance of any one institution of all the 
past centuries. Why, Chautauqua is large enough to 
save the Gospel, if there was nothing else left. 
There is power in this line of study, in this co- 
operation, in this movement, reaching out through 
the country, and being felt in the world, something 
here that shows the Gospel to be imperishable. Why 
does Chautauqua live? Because Christianity is its 
life. Christianity is its power, is its spirit. And 
the same power, the same life, the same spirit, is 
more intense, more workful to day than in all the 
histor}^ of the past." 

The ]N"ew York Herald has the following" : '• The 
fact is, that the'Chautauqua Assembly is the visible 
center of the greatest university in the world, for 
the students number over 40,000, and the course of 
study is endless. Every family in which there is a 
Chautauqua student will learn unconsciously, that 
life is worth living and that there is something more 
than food and clothing. Society, politics and relig- 
ion will improve wherever there is a single adult 
who has learned that study need not end when the 
doors of the school room close behind them. Culture^ 
which at present means little more than a thin var- 
nish upon very imperfect material, will be far more 
genuine and general when thousands of clear-headed 
men and women have sought it, by beginning with- 
in, instead of without. 



46 ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 

IN CONCLUSION. 

As the most cultivated people of the ancient 
world, the Athenians and their Roman cousins, had 
their Agora, and Groves, and Forum, where their peo- 
ple met to hear the wisdom from their philosophers 
and statesmen ; their temples with their deifications, 
represented in statues sculptured from the fairest of 
marbles ( by which very stones the want of something 
truer and deeper was expressed ), and their Altars to 
the Unknown god, so Chautauqua is the Agora and 
Forum of this, our day and generation. Its platform 
expresses all culture, all wisdom, all knowledge, and 
its right hand holds the Bible with its G-od, who 
may be known, and its chart for guiding this won- 
derful soul of ours in its marvelous journey, while 
the left hand points to the unwritten Works of the 
same Lord, who will be near all the way of this life 
and lead us up to the heavenly kingdom. Thus im- 
perfectly have I attempted in this paper to tell 
something about the aim and work of the great 
Chautauqua movement, and its eight permanent De- 
partments of Instruction, in order that you may 
know something of this "mighty power" that is 
abroad in our land ! And will you believe me when 
I tell you that the leaders of this movement do not 
in any form receive reward for their great work of 
elevating the standard of Christian education which 
this nineteenth century demands. If you will go 
and spend one session at this great center you will 



ABOUT CHAUTAUQUA. 47 

not wonder why every year, in the lovely summer- 
thne, many thoughts are turning to this beautiful 
'' City in the Woods," why many hearts are uttering 
fervent petitions that they may meet and grasp the 
hand and look into the dear face of him who is 
their special leader, and have their enthusiasm re- 
kindled, as their hearts and minds are refreshed by 
the ^' royal feast " his brain deviseth for all who will 
be guided. I would also have you believe with a 
learned man who has traveled in every part of the 
world, and who, after visiting Chautauqua and re- 
maining one session in examining all its plans and 
looking into the earnest, intelligent faces of the 
thousands who daily assemble for instruction, de- 
clared Chautauqua with its Idea and Aim, to be the 
'' Eighth Wonder of the World." 



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